On Thursday, January 9, the Morris Museum hosted an event celebrating Morristown’s rich Revolutionary War history with the premiere of NJ PBS’s latest documentary, Treasures of New Jersey: Jockey Hollow. Historians, community leaders, and supporters of both cultural and environmental preservation came together to honor the vital role Jockey Hollow played in shaping our nation’s story.
The F. M. Kirby Foundation would like to recognize significant contributions from three of our partner organizations — Morris Museum, Friends of Jockey Hollow, and NJ PBS — who made this event and the production of the documentary possible. Their collaboration showcases how art, education, and public media can honor local history while inspiring future generations.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Morris Museum and NJ PBS leadership, setting the stage for a meaningful exploration of the historical treasures of Jockey Hollow, a site integral to the American Revolution. As part of Morristown National Historical Park, Jockey Hollow served as the winter encampment for George Washington’s troops during the “hard winter” of 1779-1780. The documentary captures the resilience of the soldiers and the enduring significance of this landmark, blending historical artifacts, expert commentary, and breathtaking visuals of the preserved grounds. Following the screening, attendees enjoyed a panel discussion, which featured Sally Garner, the documentary’s producer, Jude Pfister, Chief of Cultural Resources, and Steven Elliot, a military historian and Rutgers University lecturer.
The Kirby Foundation extends its gratitude to the Morris Museum for hosting this exceptional event. As a vibrant cultural hub, the Museum continues to connect audiences with the arts and history in engaging and innovative ways. We also commend NJ PBS for producing this film, which brings the story of Jockey Hollow to audiences across the state and beyond. Lastly, we celebrate the Friends of Jockey Hollow for its unwavering commitment to preserving this historic site and sharing its legacy.
The film will air on Wednesday, January 15 at 8:30 p.m. on NJ PBS and six more times during the month of January. Click here to view the full broadcast schedule. Funding for this film was provided in part by Dillard and Adrienne Kirby, Kim and Finn Wentworth, Friends of Jockey Hollow, and the F. M. Kirby Foundation.